Zanu-PF annual 'feast' to gobble US$4 million

Published: 2 hours ago

The 22nd Zanu-PF Annual National People's Conference, scheduled to run from 14 to 18 October in Mutare, is projected to cost a staggering US$4 million, raising concerns about extravagance at a time when ordinary Zimbabweans continue to grapple with widespread poverty.

The annual gathering, marked by pomp and ceremony, will see the ruling party's top leadership and provincial delegates assemble in a lavish display of wealth, with leaders expected to don designer suits, travel in luxury vehicles, and partake in expensive refreshments.

Speaking to state media, Zanu-PF National Chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri confirmed that nearly US$4 million had been mobilised for the event, with US$2 million coming directly from the party's elite. She assured that preparations, including furnishing the main hall and offices, were now fully complete.

"All is 100 percent ready. We are good to go," Muchinguri-Kashiri said, adding that the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) had been instructed to provide uninterrupted power throughout the conference. Roads leading to the venue have been rehabilitated, and sufficient food provisions have been secured.

In line with tradition, any leftovers from the feeding of 5,000 delegates will be donated to hospitals, orphanages, and other needy institutions. Muchinguri-Kashiri noted that donations could potentially feed 10,000 people, highlighting the scale of the event.

The conference will bring together Zanu-PF's top leadership and provincial executives to deliberate on key party decisions. Analysts anticipate that this year's gathering will serve as a platform for factions supporting President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term extension to consolidate their position.

At 83 years old, Mnangagwa, as Zanu-PF's First Secretary, will preside over all conference proceedings. The week's itinerary includes a Politburo meeting on Tuesday and a Central Committee sitting on Wednesday, both taking place in Harare. Other highlights include the commissioning of the Mega Market Milling Plant, the opening of the National Pharmaceutical Warehouse at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, and the launch of a national tree-planting initiative at the site of the new Zanu-PF provincial offices adjacent to the conference venue.

The event's opulence has reignited debate over government spending priorities, as millions are diverted to party functions while large segments of the population continue to face economic hardship and limited access to basic services.
- newzimbabwe

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